Peace Lutheran Church, Waldorf, MD

The essence of an organization can be found among the individuals who breathe life into its spirit. Peace Lutheran Church, Waldorf, Md. thrives through the efforts and talents of volunteers such as these that I've had the honor of interviewing:

• Maryland Independent: Dec. 5, 2008: Myrick leaves Peace Lutheran --Were David Myrick's musical career a chorale by his favorite composer, Johann Sebastian Bach, Myrick would likely be in his eighth movement as he prepares for the coda in his career, both within education and the faith community. A music teacher previously with the Charles County public school system and currently with Prince George's County public schools, Myrick, a Mechanicsville resident, is retiring from public education this month, leaving for Denton, Texas. In addition to teaching scores of students in proper musical techniques, since 1988, Myrick has also been the principal church organist at Peace Lutheran Church in Waldorf, where he provides Sunday morning preludes, postludes and all the music in between. Not counting weddings or other special occasions, Myrick has provided the music for more than 1,800 Sunday morning services.

• Maryland Independent: October 2008 Derr. wife ring in choirs at Peace Lutheran -- Waldorf resident Will Derr was recently named the Minister of Music at Peace Lutheran Church in Waldorf. "Although my parents had no musical talent, they did all they could to develop mine," said Derr in a press release. "In first grade I joined the ‘Alleluia Choir.' … It was more than just a children's choir; it was musical training. Not only did we learn the songs we were going to perform, we also learned how to read, sing, write and listen to music. I credit this children's choir experience with giving me the foundation upon which to build the rest of my musical skills and knowledge."

• Southern Maryland Online: Oct. 1, 2008 Waldorf Church Installs Stained Glass Windows -- In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Peace Lutheran Church in Waldorf, the congregation has installed contemporary stained glass panels in its worship space. The eight panels, designed, created and installed by Daryl Faustini and Rex Ayers, owners of the Hour Glass Studio in La Plata and members at Peace, reflect the church's liturgical year and include green, purple, red, blue, black, white and gold. "From one that takes art seriously, it's hard to conceptualize pencil to reality, especially for glass," said Faustini. "As light moves through colored glass, no matter what time of day, it warms both heart and soul. Both Rex and I are honored to bring this splendor in the glass to Peace."